Council ratifies emergency purchase for Long View Street after crews find extensive subsurface water and degraded base

Moberly — The City Council on Oct. 16 ratified an emergency procurement for the repair of Long View Street after staff described unexpectedly poor subsurface conditions that required unplanned excavation.

Public works staff described the repair as more extensive than routine milling: crews found pervasive water inflow under the pavement and broken base material that had become a two‑foot‑deep layer of soft soil, undermining the pavement. Mr. Sanders told council that crews are excavating the soft material, placing a separation fabric, then installing about 15–20 inches of 3‑inch shot rock and compacted base rock before repaving. He said the water department has sounded the area and reported no obvious pipe leaks, but the source of the subsurface water remains unclear.

Council discussion focused on scope, durability and cost. Staff said the city was receiving competitive pricing for the work despite the emergency nature and that the method of reconstruction (fabric, shot rock, base rock) has held up in other recently repaired areas.

Action taken: Council moved and approved a resolution ratifying the city manager’s emergency purchase to cover supplies and services for the Long View Street repair.

Quote: “Everywhere we dig, we’re seeing water just running out,” Mr. Sanders said, describing the extent of the subsurface moisture that prompted the emergency repair.

Next steps: Staff will continue excavation and rebuild the base in affected sections, monitor repaired sections during rain events and bill or report costs according to the approved emergency procurement and budget processes.